6,700 Students Return From Bangladesh, MEA Attacks Canada's Double Standards: Three Highlights From Weekly Briefing

In the weekly press briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday (25 July), spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified India's stance on various matters including its relationship with Russia and neighbouring countries.

Here are the key highlights:

1. Russia: A question was asked about comments made by US leader regarding India canceling defence order from Russia. Asserting a long-standing relationship with Russia, the MEA said that India has freedom of choice.

2. Bangladesh: Since the outbreak of violence in Bangladesh over reservations, over 6,700 Indian students have come back due to "excellent cooperation from the Bangladeshi government."

Jaiswal affirmed that the Indian High Commission has arranged their safe and secure travel at border-crossing points and airports and 24X7 helpline is working to assist returning students.

3. Canada: A question was asked about the arrest of two persons for online threats given to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The MEA attacked Canada's "different yardsticks to measure the rule of law."

"We expect Canada to take action against anti-India elements who have repeatedly threatened Indian leaders, institutions, airlines and diplomats by violence," Jaiswal added.